Bathhouses
The Banya
Russian-style bathhouse in Mullumbimby with a wood-fired sauna, drench buckets, steam room, hot mineral pools and a cold plunge.
Wood-Fired
Cold Plunge
Steam Room
Guide to wood-fired & outdoor
Wood-fired saunas bring the ritual back to its roots: a timber room, a stove and a fire, often with the sea, a river or a lake as the cold plunge. In Australia they pop up on beaches, harbours, lakes and farms, from Sydney's Northern Beaches to Tasmania's waterways and Western Australia's south.
Sessions are usually shared in small groups for 45–90 minutes. Because many operate outdoors or seasonally, check the schedule and book ahead.
What to bring
Swimwear, two towels, thongs, warm layers for afterwards and water. In winter, a robe or beanie makes the walk back from a cold dip much more pleasant.
SaunaFindr currently lists 16 venues under wood-fired & outdoor, with starting prices from $40.
Frequently asked questions
Do wood-fired saunas run all year?
Many do, but some outdoor and mobile saunas are seasonal or weather-dependent. Check the venue's booking page for current dates.
Are wood-fired & outdoor good for beginners?
Yes, as long as you take it at your own pace. Sit further from the stove if it feels intense, and treat any ocean or lake dip with care.
Own a sauna or bathhouse?
Get found by people searching for saunas in your area. Listing is free, and owners can claim and update existing listings.